New Prop
- Thread starter MBPerini
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3-bladed prop?
I believe the 3-bladed prop is standard. What makes you think your prop is your problem. I still have a little vibration after having my prop checked, replacing the cutless bearing, inspecting the shaft, installing a flexible coupling and checking the alignment. But it is at low rpms 1200-1300 which I attribute to the inherent nature of the universal diesel.
The 3-bladed prop does fine, except for sailing where a 2-blade or folding prop would increase performance. But then you have the less that stellar performance of the 2-blade and the jolt/shock and delay of the folding prop (plus I hear that backing isn't so great). Life and props are full of compromise.
I believe the 3-bladed prop is standard. What makes you think your prop is your problem. I still have a little vibration after having my prop checked, replacing the cutless bearing, inspecting the shaft, installing a flexible coupling and checking the alignment. But it is at low rpms 1200-1300 which I attribute to the inherent nature of the universal diesel.
The 3-bladed prop does fine, except for sailing where a 2-blade or folding prop would increase performance. But then you have the less that stellar performance of the 2-blade and the jolt/shock and delay of the folding prop (plus I hear that backing isn't so great). Life and props are full of compromise.
I am by no means an expert on props, but I was fortunate that my 310 came with an Autoprop folding prop. Great speed at reasonable RPM's, backs amazingly well, and I observe near a half knot improvement when I put in gear during sailing (to fold it).
However, when I talked to a prop repair place about the vibration, and could they balance the prop, they told me in their experience, folding props nearly always vibrate. As rpwillia suggests, compromise...
However, when I talked to a prop repair place about the vibration, and could they balance the prop, they told me in their experience, folding props nearly always vibrate. As rpwillia suggests, compromise...
Oh - I should also mention that these folding props are EXPENSIVE. Mine retails at around $3,000. If it dies or is damaged, I will probably go to a 2 blade fixed, unless I get into racing (a possibility, albeit remote). Even then, at that price, new sails become a serious alternative.
The reason I asked what type you had was I believe the two bladed prop was the standard and the three blades was an upgrade. So if you have a two a three would help. A few things you want to check. I was seeing a bit of loss of control with mine, but after I dived under and cleared the barnacle growth I have seen improvement. I think the vibration problem is more of a design issue with the boat and engine. If you search this board you will see many discussions on the subject.
Flex-O-Fold
Look at the Flex-O-Fold prop
Best price performance you will find
Mine cost under a grand 6 yrs ago.
Look at the Flex-O-Fold prop
Best price performance you will find
Mine cost under a grand 6 yrs ago.
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